Aircraft excursion following landing due to wet runway

Casualties unknown • Arthur City, TX, US

A pilot attempted to avoid a ditch after an overspeed landing on a wet runway, resulting in a wing strike and structural damage to the aircraft.

What happened

During the short final phase of flight, the pilot noted that the aircraft was traveling at a slightly high speed. Although the pilot considered performing a go-around, the decision was made to proceed with the landing.

Upon touchdown, the pilot immediately applied the brakes; however, because the grass surface was wet, the aircraft failed to stop before reaching the end of the runway. Approximately 60 yards from the departure end of the runway, the pilot executed a 90-degree left turn toward an open field in an attempt to avoid a large ditch located just off the runway exit.

During this maneuver, the right wing tip made contact with a tree, and the aircraft subsequently rolled through a barbed wire fence. As the aircraft moved through the area, the left wing came to rest on a fence post. The left wheel then dropped into a hole, an impact that buckled the main spar at the outboard skin lap.

All occupants were not injured.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to land despite excessive speed on a wet surface, followed by an attempt to avoid an obstacle off the runway end.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-07-26 Piper PA-24-180 accident near Arthur City, TX?

A pilot attempted to avoid a ditch after an overspeed landing on a wet runway, resulting in a wing strike and structural damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-07-26 involved a Piper PA-24-180, registration N7014P, at Arthur City, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to land despite excessive speed on a wet surface, followed by an attempt to avoid an obstacle off the runway end.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08395. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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